The past year and theensuing Covid situation have undoubtedly taken a toll on almost everyone,particularly on the frontline workers, such as doctors and nurses. With thesituation becoming relatively better in certain parts of the world, it onlymakes sense for people to go back to how life used to be like pre-Covid. If youare a nurse and are looking for a relaxing getaway or a short trip that willmake you feel refreshed and at peace, then book a ticket to the fantasticislands of New Zealand.
Located 4200 km eastof Australia, New Zealand is divided into the north and south islands in thesouthwest pacific oceans. 'Land of the long white cloud,' this beautifulcountry is full of incredible views of the sea, soaring mountains, gorgescovered with dense shrubbery and forests, magnificent volcanic peaks, and awhole lot of other exciting and spectacular natural views.
However, nature is notall that New Zealand has to offer. From incredibly hospitable locals, deliciousfood, some of the best wine in the whole world, a rich history and culture, andan array of other activities, the country will make you want to stay thereforever.
To get you started onyour itinerary, we have compiled a detailed list of things to do, places tosee, accommodation, and other important information that you would need to planyour trip to New Zealand.
Adventure and Recreation:
Known as one of theworld's adventure capitals, New Zealand is where you will find numerous adrenaline-pumpingactivities, from bungee jumping and jet skiing to caving and skiing. The listof all the fantastic activities and adventures to choose from is so long thatyou'd be pressed for choice. If you are into mountain biking or hiking, thenthe Manawatu region, with its splendid scenery, is perfect foryou. Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans will love Hamilton inWaikato, which is best known for being the shire in the films.
Wine and Food:
Yes, we purposefullywrote wine before food because although the food in New Zealand is definitelyone of its main attractions, the wine still takes the win. Because of itsunique climate, New Zealand is ideal for producing some of the best wines youwill ever taste. Go wine tasting in the number of vineyards and wineriesthroughout the country, especially Marlborough, the famous and mostprominent wine-growing region on the South Island.
Nature and Wildlife:
The naturalattractions of New Zealand are incomparable. With lots of beautiful gardens,World Heritage sites, and National parks, you will always be on a new natureescapade. The glaciers on the west coast, hot springs, thermal pools,geothermal and volcanic activity in the Bay of Plenty aredefinitely something everyone visiting New Zealand should try at least once.And of course, a trip down the fjord of Milford Sound is amust too. You will spot diverse wildlife wherever you go such as seals on acruise tour of Milford Sound and a lot more.
Luxury Hotels
Doubletree by HiltonWellington:
Located in the capitalcity of New Zealand, Doubletree is the first Hilton Portfolio hotel, ideallypositioned in downtown Wellington. This seven-floor, 106 guestroom hotel givesthe charm and feel of a boutique hotel. Occupying a heritage-listed building, thehotel showcases some classical revival and art deco styles. Some of theamenities include valet parking, bar/lounge, laundry service, complimentarytea, and instant coffee, as well as concierge facilities, meeting andconference rooms, and a fitness room.
Novotel RotoruaLakeside:
Because of itsproximity to the picturesque Lake Rotorua, Novotel Rotorua Lakeside overlookssome of the lake's most spectacular views. With it being a short walk away fromthe city center, the hotel's location is perfect for enjoying the nightlife inthe area or going shopping. Facilities such as spas, sauna, gym, bar, andswimming pool making it ideal for a relaxing, no stress stay. Room facilitiesinclude a safe, mini-bar, air conditioning, hairdryer, and iron.
Budget Hotels:
Butterfield BeachHouse:
In the southlandregion of Half-moon Bay, and conveniently located only 0.7 miles away from thefamous Deadman Beach, Butterfield Beach House is one of those perfect budgethotels that gives you all the necessities at the most affordable price. We'retalking, free Wi-Fi, and private parking, as well as BBQ facilities and agarden! Inside, you will find a kitchen fully equipped with a microwave,dishwasher, ironing facilities, and a comfortable lounge area with aflat-screen TV. Because of its location, hiking, snorkeling, and cycling in thesurrounding areas are favorite activities among the visitors.
Panorama HeightsApartment:
This 61 meters squaredapartment located in Paihi, only 2.6 miles from the Opua forest, comes with aprivate deck that overlooks the bay, free Wi-Fi, and off-street parking, amongother things. It is only a few minutes' drive from the town center and only a5-minute walk from the beach. Panorama Heights Apartment also comes with afully equipped kitchen, 32-inch flat-screen TV, lounge, and dining area, aswell as a clean bathroom with a hairdryer and bathrobes.
Whitebait Fritters:
The most popular wayof eating whitebait in New Zealand is as fritters, so don't miss out on thisdelicacy if you are in the country. Made of an egg and flour batter, the fishis fried and seasoned with salt and pepper, and the product is consumed as adelicious, everyday snack, appetizer, and sometimes even a whole meal, with asalad on the side.
Jaffas:
If you are in NewZealand, you have to try the most popular confectionary, knownas Jaffas. These are chocolate balls with an orange-flavored red coating. Talkabout innovation.
Anzac Biscuits:
Made of a combinationof flour, oats, golden syrup, butter, sugar, coconut, and soda bicarbonate,Anzac Biscuits are sweet cookies quite popular among the kiwis.
The cost depends onthe kind of trip you are trying to have and the duration of your trip.Nevertheless, on average, most travelers spend around NZ$180 per day, includingapproximately NZ$43 on food and NZ$18 on transportation. Based on mostvisitors' average travel expenses in the past, the average expenses of a solotraveler for one week are in the neighborhood of NZ$1291.
If you want to fullyenjoy a trip to New Zealand, taking in all of its natural beauty, rich culture,and heritage and partaking in all of the exciting activities and adventures,then you should, at the very least, plan a trip of around 14 days. A 2-weektime frame would give you ample time and opportunities to adequately exploreboth the North and South Island of New Zealand.
Natasha Osei
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